According to Salty Snacks: U.S. Market Trends and Opportunities, retail dollar sales of the U.S. salty snacks industry grew to $24 billion in 2017, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 4 percent between 2012 and 2017.

"In recent years, more consumers have moved away from the traditional three meals per day and shifted into a lifestyle involving increased snacking, or multiple smaller meals, throughout the day," commented David Sprinkle, research director for Packaged Facts.

Contributing to the ubiquitous consumption of salty snacks is that they are readily available in vending machines, grab-and-go retail outlets like convenience stores and gas stations, and featured in locations conducive to impulse purchases, like checkout lanes. These factors offer stability to the U.S. market for salty snacks, according to Packaged Facts.

However, salty snacks also face competition from other snacks, such as chocolate and non-chocolate confections, cookies and crackers, as well as food choices that are perceived to be healthier, such as nuts, seeds and dried and fresh produce.